Most banks are closed on December 26 in the United States
December 26 is not a federal holiday, so banks are not required to close. However, many major banks choose to stay closed anyway because they observe the day after Christmas as a holiday for their staff. The banks that do this include Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most regional and community banks.
If you need to do banking on December 26, your best option is to use an ATM or mobile banking app — both work whether the branch is open or not. If you need to speak to someone or handle something that requires a teller, you will likely have to wait until December 27.
Some smaller banks and credit unions stay open on December 26. Call your bank directly or check their website to confirm their specific hours, because policies vary by institution and sometimes by individual branch.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks close on December 26, even though it is not a federal holiday, because they observe the day after Christmas.
- ATMs and mobile banking apps work on December 26 regardless of whether the branch is open.
- Some credit unions and smaller banks remain open on December 26, so contact your bank to confirm.
- If you need to deposit a check or handle a transaction that requires a teller, plan to visit on December 27 or later.
- Wire transfers and online bill payments process normally on December 26, but may not post until the next business day.
How to check your specific bank's December 26 hours
The fastest way is to search "[Your Bank Name] hours December 26" or visit the bank's website and look for a branch locator tool. Most banks list holiday hours prominently on their homepage in December. You can also call the branch directly — the phone line usually has a recorded message about holiday closures.
If you use a credit union, check their website or call their main number. Credit union policies on December 26 vary widely — some close, some stay open with normal hours, and some open for limited hours. Do not assume your credit union follows the same schedule as a major bank.
What you can do on December 26 without visiting a branch
ATMs work 24 hours on December 26. You can withdraw cash, deposit checks (if your ATM has mobile deposit or a check slot), transfer money between your own accounts, and check your balance.
Mobile banking apps let you pay bills, transfer money, deposit checks by photo, send money to other people, and view your account. These functions work on December 26 the same way they work any other day. Payments you send may not process until December 27, but you can schedule them in advance.
Online banking through your bank's website works the same way. You can also set up automatic payments or transfers that will execute on December 27 or a later date you choose.
When deposits and transfers actually post on December 26
Deposits made on December 26 usually do not post until December 27 or later, depending on the type of deposit and your bank's processing schedule. A check deposited via ATM or mobile app on December 26 typically posts on December 27 or 28. A direct deposit scheduled for December 26 may post on that day if your employer sent it early, but many employers do not process payroll on the day after Christmas.
Wire transfers initiated on December 26 may not process until December 27 because the Federal Reserve does not operate on federal holidays. If December 26 falls on a weekday and your bank is open, a wire sent before the cutoff time (usually 2 or 3 p.m.) may still process the same day — but confirm the cutoff time with your bank first.
Transfers between your own accounts at the same bank usually post immediately on December 26, whether the branch is open or not.
What to do if you need cash on December 26
Use an ATM. Every bank has ATMs that work around the clock, and you can withdraw cash on December 26 without visiting a branch. If you do not know where the nearest ATM is, search your bank's website for the ATM locator, or use Google Maps to find ATMs nearby.
If you need cash and do not have a bank card with you, some grocery stores and pharmacies offer cash back when you make a purchase with a debit card. Walmart, Target, and most supermarkets have this option.
Planning ahead for December 26 banking needs
If you know you will need to deposit a check or handle a transaction that requires a teller, do it on December 24 or 25 instead. Most banks are open on December 24 (Christmas Eve) with normal or slightly shortened hours, and some are open on December 25 (Christmas Day) for limited hours — check ahead.
If you need to send a wire transfer or make a time-sensitive payment, do it before December 26. The Federal Reserve does not process wires on federal holidays, and December 25 (Christmas) is one. Wires sent on December 26 may not process until December 27 or 28.
If you are expecting a direct deposit on December 26, contact your employer or payroll department to confirm the deposit date. Many employers delay payroll when it would normally fall on or near a holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on December 26 if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at ATMs and stores on December 26 regardless of whether your bank branch is open. You can withdraw cash, make purchases, and use online banking normally.
Will my paycheck deposit on December 26?
It depends on your employer's payroll schedule. If your paycheck normally deposits on December 26 and that date falls on a weekday, it may still deposit on time — but many employers move payroll earlier when it falls near a holiday. Contact your payroll department to confirm.
Can I deposit a check on December 26?
Yes, if your bank has an ATM with a check deposit slot or if you use mobile deposit through the app. The check will not post until December 27 or later. If you need the funds urgently, deposit on December 24 instead.
What if I need to speak to someone at my bank on December 26?
Call your bank's customer service number — most have phone support even when branches are closed. If you need to visit in person, plan for December 27. Some banks offer video chat or online messaging through their app or website.
Are online bill payments delayed on December 26?
You can schedule a bill payment on December 26, but it will not process until December 27 or later. If a bill is due on December 26, pay it before that date to avoid a late fee.